event Preparing for the Next Wildfire Season May 19, 2021 After unprecedented losses last year, Californians are bracing for another difficult wildfire season. Lower-than-normal winter rainfall has created dry conditions across the state, putting many areas at risk. Join us for a conversation with insurance commissioner Ricardo Lara and other state leaders about the steps California is taking to prepare for wildfire season—this year and beyond.
event Is California Ready for Drought? May 6, 2021 Drought isn’t an equal opportunity crisis—some sectors and communities are more affected than others. Join the PPIC Water Policy Center and state and local experts for a panel discussion about how to reduce its impacts to the most vulnerable sectors.
event A Conversation with US Senator Alex Padilla Apr 6, 2021 Improved vaccine distribution, increased school reopenings, and additional dollars to families are giving Californians hope in difficult times. As we look ahead to post-pandemic life, what challenges and opportunities await? Join PPIC President and CEO Mark Baldassare and US Senator Alex Padilla for a conversation about a variety of pressing topics, from immigration reform to the economy to the environment.
event Women and the Pandemic Economy Mar 25, 2021 As the vaccine rollout picks up, the nation is getting closer to controlling the virus, reopening schools, and resuming full economic activity. The past year has revealed just how interrelated these challenges are, particularly for women. A panel of experts will discuss the continuing struggles California’s women face in balancing work, family, and health during these unprecedented times.
event Reopening California’s Schools Mar 4, 2021 As California nears the one-year anniversary of the first pandemic-induced shutdowns, the question of how to handle the state’s public K–12 schools remains fraught. As vaccinations ramp up, deep concerns over equity, learning loss, and physical and mental health remain. Join us for a wide-ranging discussion with a panel of distinguished experts about the challenges and opportunities ahead.
event A Conversation with Lieutenant Governor Eleni Kounalakis Feb 4, 2021 The past year has highlighted and heightened California’s key challenges. As the state emerges from the pandemic, how can policymakers pave the way for an equitable recovery? Lieutenant Governor Eleni Kounalakis will join PPIC President and CEO Mark Baldassare for a wide-ranging conversation, with a special focus on the economy.
event A Conversation with Leon Panetta Jan 26, 2021 After a tragic and tumultuous year, the importance of leadership is top of mind for Californians. Former Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta will join PPIC President and CEO Mark Baldassare for a wide-ranging discussion about leading through the critical challenges facing the state and nation.
event A Conversation with Cabinet Secretary Ana Matosantos Dec 10, 2020 After a year of extraordinary hardship, California still faces severe health and economic challenges. Join PPIC President and CEO Mark Baldassare in conversation with Ana Matosantos, cabinet secretary to Governor Gavin Newsom, for a wide ranging conversation about California’s economic well-being and strategies to advance an equitable recovery in 2021 and beyond.
event Income Inequality and Economic Opportunity in California Dec 8, 2020 The COVID-19 recession threatens to worsen California’s longstanding economic divide. Low-income families, communities of color, and women have been hit the hardest, and past recessions suggest their wages will take longer to recover. Can policymakers break the mold and pave the way for an equitable recovery?
event Higher Education and Economic Opportunity in California Nov 6, 2020 Boosting college enrollment and graduation among Latinos, African Americans, and low-income Californians can narrow the state’s economic divide and help meet workforce needs. PPIC Higher Education Center Director Hans Johnson will outline a new report on broadening the benefits of a college degree, and a panel of experts will discuss strategies for expanding access and completion.